Private car transfer
from Zagreb to Budapest

To start the trip off right, travel about an hour and a half north of Zagreb and stop by Varaždin. This former capital of Croatia was mostly spared during the Yugoslav wars of the 1990s, and is, therefore, known for its well-preserved Baroque architecture. While other Croatian cities have had to incorporate modern buildings into their downtowns, Varaždin has remained relatively unchanged. Explore the medieval Old Town, visit Varaždin Castle, and enjoy a leisurely walk along the Drava River.

Once you’re in Hungary, you do not want to miss the Tapolca Lake Cave. Take a guided boat tour underground and admire the naturally formed limestone caves and thermal spring waters from Lake Tapolca. Your Daytrip driver can get you right where you need to go for this excursion, but this trip often sells out fast, so secure your tickets today to avoid being disappointed!

Once you’ve dried off from the hot springs, continue to the Hungarian capital of Budapest! With Daytrip’s door-to-door service, you won’t have to worry about returning a rental car or hauling luggage all over the city. You’ll be all set for the next part of your vacation: Budapest.

Budapest suffered significant damage during World War II, with many of its historic buildings and landmarks destroyed or damaged. However, extensive reconstruction efforts in the post-war years restored much of the city's architectural heritage. Notable examples include the meticulous rebuilding of Buda Castle, Castle Hill, and the Jewish Quarter. Some buildings are still undergoing reconstruction and detailing almost 80 years later. As you walk around the city, find pre-war photos on your phone and compare the reconstructed buildings to the originals for an interesting look into the process.

Today, Budapest has a vibrant cultural scene and thriving urban life which attracts visitors from around the world. From its charming thermal baths, exciting nightlife, and bustling markets, Budapest offers a lively atmosphere to guests and residents alike.

Add a stop to your schedule

This route within Europe is so under-explored that no matter which excursion you add to your Daytrip journey, you are sure to have a unique time in a place few others have visited. Visit the stagecoach museum in Helikon Castle and see how your Daytrip ride may have looked 200 years ago before cars. Or relax and take a thermal bath at Heviz Lake, with mineral-rich mud and warm water in every season. What better way to make a unique experience out of a travel day?

Zagreb to Budapest by Bus

Traveling from Zagreb to Budapest by bus is a cheap option and the direct journey takes around 5 to 6 hours. Check the timetables ahead of time, and purchase your tickets online in advance for the smoothest experience and lowest cost.

Zagreb to Budapest by Train

Depending on the time of year, there are direct train services available from Zagreb to Budapest, operated by national railways like OBB and HŽPP. Summer tourist season tends to have daily direct trains, but in other seasons you may need to transfer. For interrail pass holders, this can be a cost-effective way to travel in coach, but be aware that interrail tickets must be purchased ahead of time, and the direct trains sell out fast.

Flights from Zagreb to Budapest

There are currently very few, if any, direct flights from Zagreb to Budapest. Most flights will require a stop first in Vienna, Frankfurt, or Munich. Between the extra flight time, layover, getting to and from the airport, and the time needed for check-in and security, flying loses its appeal. Take this into consideration if you plan to fly, and do your research well in advance. For the price of flying, it might be more convenient to hire a private driver.

Explore the Buda Castle District

Buda Castle, on the west bank of the Danube River, dominates the busy streets of Pest below. A castle has stood over the river since 1295, protecting citizens from attacks and invasions. The castle today isn't the same structure as 700 years ago, having been destroyed and rebuilt multiple times over the centuries, most recently following its destruction during World War II. Today, you can explore the walkways and learn about this history without spending a penny.

Some of Castle Hill’s most notable landmarks include:

• Fisherman’s Bastion
• The Royal Palace
• The Royal Gardens
• Matthias Church
• Hungarian National Gallery

Have a Spa Day

You had an exciting trip from Zagreb to Budapest, so now it’s time to relax in one of Budapest's many thermal baths. The city sits atop over 100 natural thermal springs, making it one of the top destinations for thermal bathing in Europe. The Rudas Thermal Bath is one of the oldest and was founded in the 16th century during Ottoman rule, which is evident by its alluring Turkish bathhouse style. The Széchenyi Thermal Bath is the largest medical bath in Europe and is the most popular in Budapest. With options to add saunas, steam rooms, massages, and clay baths, you can find spa packages at any price point at one of the many baths.

Scenes of the Danube River

Take a stroll or bike ride along the riverbanks of the Danube, admiring iconic landmarks such as the Chain Bridge and the Parliament Building. Even better, take a scenic cruise along the Danube River to see Budapest's landmarks illuminated at night. Many night cruises also offer dinner and drinks to bring you the full experience of a romantic night out on the river under the moon.

The Jewish Quarter

Budapest had a solidly middle-class Jewish population before WWII, but its community fell by 90% during WWII and the Jewish Quarter faced extensive damage. Today, it is home to restored historic synagogues that are open for tours. The Synagogue Triangle has three large synagogues within walking distance of each other. The Dohány Street Synagogue is the largest synagogue in Europe and one of the most iconic landmarks of Budapest, with room to seat 3,000 people.

Along with historic synagogues and memorials, the Jewish Quarter is also a party district now, with trendy cafes and quirky “ruin pubs” in formerly run-down buildings. This unique repurposing of buildings that would have otherwise been left abandoned is just one way Budapest was able to find creative ways to bounce back after the destruction of WWII.

Spring is perhaps the best time to visit Budapest. The weather is pleasant, there are fewer crowds, and you’ll be able to enjoy the Budapest Wine Festival, which showcases Hungary's rich wine culture!

Summer is the most popular time to visit. The many tourists and high temperatures can make exploring the city frustrating. But it's worth it for the Sziget Festival, one of Europe's largest music festivals. It attracts international artists and music lovers from around the world.

Like spring, autumn sees cooler temperatures and fewer visitors. It's also when the Budapest International Documentary Festival occurs, so you can catch some thought-provoking documentaries.

Lastly, during the winter months, Budapest transforms into a holiday wonderland with festive decorations, Christmas markets, and events for New Year's Eve. When temperatures dip, the thermal spas are even more enticing!